Determinants of Farmers’ Willingness to Adopt Organic Agriculture: Behavioural Insights and Systemic Challenges

The environmental and health-related challenges associated with intensive and conventional farming practices have underscored the urgency of transitioning towards more sustainable agricultural systems, such as organic farming.Degradation of soil quality, nutrient depletion, biodiversity loss, chemical exposure, and erosion have been widely attributed to prolonged conventional agricultural methods.The adoption of organic farming practices is therefore considered pivotal in addressing these ecological and public health concerns.However, the effectiveness of this transition is largely contingent on farmers' willingness to adopt and sustain organic cultivation methods.In this context, A thorough examination of peer-reviewed literature was conducted to examine the behavioral drivers and systemic barriers influencing decisions by farmers to adopt organic farming.Special attention was given to the level knowledge and perception regarding organic practices, as well as theoretical models of technology adoption in agricultural contexts by the farmers.The findings indicate that perceived health benefits, environmental sustainability, and long-term economic viability are primary motivators of adoption.Conversely, constraints such as reduced yields, labor intensiveness, and certification complexity were identified as significant deterrents.Furthermore, a lack of awareness and limited technical knowledge regarding organic methods were shown to hinder adoption of organic farming practices.These insights highlight the need for coordinated interventions by policymakers, agricultural agencies, and industry stakeholders to facilitate the adoption process.Emphasis is recommended on expanding awareness campaigns concerning the environmental and health benefits of organic farming, enhancing access to training programmes, simplifying certification procedures, and reinforcing institutional support through well-structured extension services.Greater alignment between farmers' perceived risks and the long-term benefits of organic agriculture is essential to achieving widespread and sustainable adoption.